Cheesy Baked Mac and Cheese with Crispy Panko Topping Recipe
Introduction
Classic mac and cheese is a comforting, creamy dish loved by all ages. This recipe combines tender elbow macaroni with a rich cheddar cheese sauce, topped with crispy panko breadcrumbs for added texture. It’s perfect as a hearty side or a satisfying main course.
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 cups whole milk
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs
Instructions
- Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Step 2: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter until bubbly. Whisk in flour until smooth and cook for about 1 minute to form a roux.
- Step 3: Gradually pour in whole milk while whisking constantly. Continue cooking until the mixture thickens slightly.
- Step 4: Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and smooth.
- Step 5: Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, stirring until well coated.
- Step 6: Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish, sprinkle with panko bread crumbs, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
Tips & Variations
- For extra creaminess, stir in a little cream cheese or a splash of heavy cream along with the milk.
- Try mixing in cooked bacon, sautéed onions, or steamed vegetables for added flavor and texture.
- Use a blend of cheeses like Gruyère or mozzarella for a more complex cheese sauce.
Storage
Store leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess if needed.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute elbow macaroni with other small pasta shapes like shells, rotini, or penne. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type.
Is it necessary to bake the mac and cheese?
No, baking is optional but recommended for a crispy breadcrumb topping. You can skip baking and enjoy it straight from the stovetop for a creamier texture.
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Cheesy Baked Mac and Cheese with Crispy Panko Topping Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This classic Mac and Cheese recipe features creamy cheddar cheese sauce combined with tender elbow macaroni, topped with crispy panko bread crumbs, and baked to golden perfection. It’s a comforting and flavorful dish perfect as a main or side for family meals.
Ingredients
Macaroni and Cheese
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 cups whole milk
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
Topping
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook until al dente for about 7-8 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside to use later in the recipe.
- Make the Roux: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter until it becomes bubbly. Whisk in the all-purpose flour until the mixture is smooth and cook for about 1 minute to eliminate the raw flour taste.
- Add Milk: Gradually pour in the whole milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue to cook and whisk until the mixture thickens slightly into a creamy sauce, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add Cheese: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese until it is completely melted and forms a smooth cheese sauce.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked elbow macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until the pasta is thoroughly coated with the creamy cheese mixture.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture to a greased baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the panko bread crumbs on top. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and crispy.
Notes
- For a crispier topping, you can add a tablespoon of melted butter to the panko before sprinkling.
- Use sharp or extra-sharp cheddar cheese for a more robust flavor.
- Whole milk creates a creamy texture; you can substitute with 2% milk but the sauce may be less rich.
- Make sure not to overcook the pasta to keep it slightly firm for baking.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best results.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Mac and Cheese, baked mac and cheese, cheddar cheese pasta, creamy mac and cheese, comfort food
